In an update published by **Premium Times**, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has formally petitioned the National Assembly to investigate the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The petition follows allegations of mismanagement of the multi-billion naira budget allocated for the 2023 and subsequent off-cycle elections, as well as discrepancies in the procurement of electronic voting hardware.
SERAP argues that a public probe is necessary to restore confidence in the electoral body ahead of the next major election cycle. The petition specifically targets “unexplained expenditures” in the commission’s annual audit reports. Lawmakers have reportedly signaled their intent to refer the matter to the House Committee on Electoral Matters for an immediate hearing.
**Daily Post** reported that “public pressure is mounting for a full-scale forensic audit of INEC,” while **Tribune** highlighted that “the commission has denied any wrongdoing, citing transparency in its processes.”
**Echotitbits take:** INEC is rarely out of the crosshairs of civil society, but a formal legislative probe could force a “house cleaning.” If the National Assembly follows through, expect significant revelations regarding the cost-per-voter in Nigeria, which is among the highest in the world.
Source: Premium Times – https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/871547-serap-asks-nass-to-probe-allegations-against-inec-chair.html, April 13, 2026
Photo credit: Premium Times
